Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row

Intermediate
UnilateralNeeds: Bench, sturdy chair or table edge

Also known as: Bench-Supported Single-Arm Kettlebell Row · Supported One-Arm Kettlebell Row

Expert Advice

More height is not always better. Stop pulling when your upper arm reaches your torso rather than forcing your elbow higher and rolling your shoulder forward.

How-to-do Steps

  1. Brace your opposite hand and knee on a flat bench, sturdy chair, or table edge.
  2. Plant your working-side foot firmly, keeping your back neutral and torso approximately horizontal.
  3. Hold the kettlebell beneath your working shoulder with your palm facing inward.
  4. Pull the kettlebell toward your side, driving your elbow backward as you exhale.
  5. Lower the kettlebell under control until your working arm is straight again.
  6. Complete the programmed repetitions on one arm, then switch your support and working sides.

Common Mistakes

  • Torso twists during the pullFix: keep your shoulders and hips facing the floor.
  • Working shoulder shrugs upwardFix: keep space between your shoulder and ear.

Coach Cues

Elbow toward your hipKeep your torso squareLower with control

Short reminders to keep in mind during every set.

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Muscles Worked

Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row primarily targets the Lats, with Strength mechanics using Kettlebell. Understanding muscle activation patterns helps you focus on proper engagement and maximize training effectiveness.

Primary
Lats
Lats55%
Secondary
Biceps
Biceps20%
Traps
Traps15%
Shoulders
Shoulders10%
Equipment
Kettlebell
Kettlebell
Special Bench
Special Bench
Exercise Type
Strength
55%Lats20%Biceps15%Traps10%Shoulders

Why Level 3?

Intermediate

Coordinating a free-weight row while resisting torso rotation requires basic movement competence despite the support.

Technique
Stability
Strength
Mobility
Impact
Learning

Sets & Reps Guidance

Beginner3 x 10-12
Intermediate4 x 8-10
Advanced4 x 6-8

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row work?
Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row primarily targets the Lats. Secondary muscles involved include Biceps, Traps, Shoulders. It is classified as a Strength exercise performed with Kettlebell.
How many sets and reps should I do for Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row?
For beginners, start with 3 sets of 10-12. Intermediate lifters can do 4 sets of 8-10. Advanced athletes can push to 4 sets of 6-8. Adjust based on your goals and recovery capacity.
Is Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row suitable for beginners?
Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row is rated as intermediate difficulty. Beginners may want to start with lighter loads or simpler variations and progress to this exercise as their strength and coordination improve.
What are the most common mistakes when doing Single Arm Kettlebell Bent-Over Row?
Torso twists during the pull: keep your shoulders and hips facing the floor. Working shoulder shrugs upward: keep space between your shoulder and ear.